Clematis are a range of gorgeous climbing plants that look beautiful climbing up walls, trellis etc whether it be in your back garden or entrance porch to your house. There is a wide selection of types, all with different colours, petal shapes and flowering times. Some will flower in the spring, some mid summer and others not until late summer/ early autumn. Choosing your plant types wisely can mean your garden has Clematis in flower for a large part of the year!

Clematis like cool roots, so shade at the base can be a good idea and they thrive best in moist well drained soil, covering the surface at the base with gravel or pebbles can help achieve this. When planting, give them a good soaking with water beforehand. In hot periods water the plant on a regular basis and feed with fertiliser. Tie new growth to help support the plant and to help train it to cover the maximum area possible.

Problems

Clematis can be affected by Slugs and Snails, so a few beer traps will provide a cheap organic way of controlling them. Aphids can sometimes appear on the plant, remove the affected area and spray with a light insecticide if absolutely neccesary. Clematis Wilt can affect the top of Clematis, especially the larger varieties. It is advised that you remove the branches and dispose of them well away from the plant. Powdery Mildew, a light white dust can also affect Clematis, this can be cured with a pesticide if the problem becomes out of hand.

From Seed

Clematis can be grown from seed if you are looking to save money. Plant the seeds in a good quality compost mixed with a bit of grit to help drainage. Germination can vary, but once shoots appear and are established, re-pot to bigger pots allowing more room for good root growth. Once the plants are of a decent size, place the pots in a sheltered spot outside away from direct sunlight to help them becom acclimatised to the outdoors.

Types

There is a very large number of Clematis, suitable for all types of garden from brash and tropical, to elegant in subtle palattes. Here a just a few to whet your appetite.

Princess Diana - Long pink flowers, reaching a height of 8ft tall. Flowers from June to September. Thrives in a semi shaded position.